For the first time in six seasons, it appears that RadimVrbata will don a uniform that doesn't belong to the Phoenix Coyotes.

OK, so with the team's name change to the Arizona Coyotes, that was always going to be true, but the 33-year-old unrestricted free agent isn't expected to re-sign with general manager Dave Maloney's squad.

Assets are important for Arizona, a penny-pinching franchise looking to get younger. As such, bringing back a veteran whose price will only be driven up in a thin market doesn't make a whole lot of sense.

Still, Morgan doesn't believe it's quite time to rule out the Coyotes:

Don't count out Radim Vrbata just yet. Remember, public comments from both sides this time of year often contain a good amount of posturing.

Vrbata tallied 51 points (20 goals and 31 assists) in 80 games for the Coyotes last season, finishing with a plus/minus of minus-six. He has finished with at least 40 points in four of the last five seasons (the only exception an injury-riddled 2012-13 campaign), including a 62-point season in 2011-12.

According to ESPN.com's Pierre LeBrun, there is plenty of interest in his services:

7-8 teams interested in UFA winger Radim Vrbata but Coyotes also remain in mix. Arizona and Vrbata camp should speak again before Tuesday

Vrbata may not be a sexy option on the free-agent market, but the Czechoslovakian has proven to be a consistent offensive option on the wing. Playoff teams looking for a solid veteran at a fairly cheap price would be wise to look in his direction.

WGR550's Matthew Coller put it simply:

Radim Vrbata is the same age as Marian Gaborik, will probably be close in production and will make way, way less money